Himachal Pradesh is India’s northern state with gigantic mountains and lush green forests. It is often regarded as the country’s summer capital. The state is full of beautiful hill stations designated as major tourist attractions. Himachal Pradesh offers solitude and tranquillity to peace seekers and offbeat travellers.
If you’re tired of visiting the same old places in Himachal Pradesh and want to explore all the secret panoramic views, valleys, and peaceful monasteries. Then you must visit these places to explore the beauty of nature. Sounds fascinating, doesn’t it? Then continue scrolling and start planning your vacation!
You must visit these Hidden Gems of Himachal Pradesh:
1. Kalpa
Kalpa is one of the largest settlements in the Kinnaur district. It is famous for its rich pine nut forests and the stunning beauty of the snow-capped peaks of Kinnaur Kailash in the background. There are several apple orchards in the region. It is the primary source of income here. Many residents are dependent on apple orchards for their livelihood.
You can see the holy Kailash Shivling, known to change colour throughout the day. A temple dedicated to the goddess Chandika is 11 kilometers from Kalpa. The temple is recognized for its unique architecture which makes it a must-see attraction. Kalpa is one of the hidden gems you must explore in Himachal Pradesh.
Highlights:
- Stunning views of the Kinnaur Kailash range.
- Apple orchards and beautiful temples.
- Rich Tibetan culture and influence.
Best Time to Visit: April to October
Activities:
- Trekking and hiking in the surrounding hills.
- Visiting the ancient temples such as the Narayan-Nagini Temple.
- Exploring apple orchards and tasting fresh apples.
Nearby Attractions:
- Reckong Peo: The district headquarters, known for its scenic beauty and bustling market.
- Kinnaur Kailash: A sacred peak for Hindus, offering challenging trekking opportunities.
- Sangla Valley: Known for its apple orchards, scenic beauty, and adventure activities.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport, about 267 km away. From Shimla, you can hire a cab or take a bus to Kalpa.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Shimla, around 244 km away. From Shimla, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
- By Road: Kalpa is well connected by road. Regular buses and taxis are available from major cities in Himachal Pradesh.
9 Days Himachal Offbeat Itinerary
2. Pabbar Valley
Pabbar Valley is one of Himachal Pradesh’s least-explored locations. It provides an unspoiled environment and some of the most beautiful hiking destinations.
This less-visited valley is roughly 100 kilometers east of Shimla and northeast of the little settlement of Hatkoti. Hatkoti’s primary tourist attractions are the 8th-century Kinnaur-style Hatkeshwari Devi temple and the neighboring Shiva temple. They are situated against the authentic grandeur of the Himalayas, lush green woods of deodar and oak, and several stunning rivers and waterfalls.
If you want to try something new, Pabbar Valley is a great spot. Pabbar Valley, on the other hand, is much more than just unusual hike paths. You will be able to enjoy long stretches of apple orchards, a range of outdoor activities such as trekking, and nature parks with protected woodlands that will offer you a genuine experience of virgin nature.
Several people like fishing in this Himachal Pradesh area because of the availability of trout. You can reach Pabbar Valley through Rohru & Theog on the Hindustan Tibet Route.
Highlights:
- Lush green landscapes and apple orchards.
- Adventure sports and fishing.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to December
Activities:
- Trekking and camping in the lush green landscapes.
- Fishing in the Pabbar River.
- Exploring the quaint villages and apple orchards.
Nearby Attractions:
- Rohru: A popular destination for trout fishing and apple orchards.
- Chanshal Pass: Offers stunning views and trekking opportunities.
- Jubbal: Known for its historical palace and apple orchards.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti Airport in Shimla, about 115 km away. From Shimla, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Shimla, around 103 km away. From Shimla, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
- By Road: Pabbar Valley is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Shimla and other nearby cities.
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3. Chitkul
Chitkul is a small village in Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur district. It is located at an elevation of 3,450 meters. It is the last populated settlement close to the Indo-Tibet border and the last place in India where you can travel without a permit from the government. Visitors usually stay at Sangla and return to Chitkul the same day. The Baspa River is a regular companion on this journey from Sangla.
Snowy mountains and shades of apple orchards, mustard fields, and greenery cover the surroundings. The valley is well-known for producing high-quality potatoes and peas. The weather is chilly and unpredictable. It can be harsh sometimes. For 500 years, the Goddess of Chitkul has been believed to reside here.
Highlights:
- The last inhabited village near the Indo-China border.
- Stunning views of the Baspa Valley.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to October
Activities:
- Trekking and hiking.
- Exploring the village and its traditional wooden houses.
- Enjoying the scenic beauty of the Baspa River.
Nearby Attractions:
- Sangla Valley: Known for its apple orchards and scenic beauty.
- Kamru Fort: An ancient fort with a temple dedicated to Kamakhya Devi.
- Rakcham: A beautiful village offering stunning views and trekking opportunities.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport, about 245 km away. From Shimla, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Chitkul.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Shimla, around 224 km away. From Shimla, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
- By Road: Chitkul is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from major cities in Himachal Pradesh.
4. The Barot Valley
Barot Valley is located in the Mandi district. It is also regarded as one of the most incredible destinations to visit for outdoor sports. The village is also considered to be the primary location for trout fish breeding, as well as several fishing farms. This Wildlife Sanctuary is home to certain native Himalayan animals, such as Himalayan Black Bears, Himalayan Gorals, and many pheasants.
If you’re seeking undiscovered locations to visit in Himachal Pradesh, then you must visit Barot. On your return, you can also visit Shimla, which is 195.9 kilometers from here.
Highlights:
- Lush green landscapes and rivers.
- Trout fishing and trekking.
Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November
Activities:
- Trout fishing in the Uhl River.
- Trekking and hiking in the surrounding hills.
- Exploring the scenic landscapes and traditional villages.
Nearby Attractions:
- Barot Hydro Project: An interesting site showcasing hydroelectric power generation.
- Luhardi: A beautiful village offering scenic beauty and tranquility.
- Billing: A popular site for paragliding.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Kangra Airport, about 110 km away. From Kangra, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar, around 40 km away. From Joginder Nagar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
- By Road: Barot Valley is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Joginder Nagar and other nearby cities.
5. The Rakcham Valley
Magnificent white mountains surround the Rakcham valley. It is another undiscovered beauty of Himachal Pradesh. The settlement is between Sangla and Chitkul, close to the Indo-Tibetan border. Rakcham practices a mix of Hindu and Buddhist faiths, having two Hindu temples and one Buddhist temple. Goral, Musk Deer, Brown Trout, Himalayan Black Bear, Blue Sheep, and Leopard are among the Himalayan species in the area.
When the weather is lovely and clear, Rakcham is best explored. As a result, summer is an ideal season to visit and explore charming villages. Summer begins in March and continues until June.
Highlights:
- Breathtaking views and scenic beauty.
- Rich flora and fauna.
Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November
Activities:
- Trekking and nature walks.
- Bird watching and wildlife spotting.
- Exploring traditional villages and local culture.
Nearby Attractions:
- Chitkul: The last inhabited village near the Indo-China border.
- Sangla: Known for its apple orchards and beautiful landscapes.
- Batseri: A picturesque village with traditional wooden houses.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport, about 243 km away. From Shimla, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Rakcham.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Shimla, around 222 km away. From Shimla, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
- By Road: Rakcham Valley is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from major cities in Himachal Pradesh.
6. Jibhi
Jibhi is the first location that comes to mind when travellers think about unexplored places in Himachal Pradesh. This charming hill town has lately acquired fame as one of the most intriguing tourist destinations for providing exquisite stays in the lap of nature and a pure atmosphere.
Jibhi is also known as a fascinating hamlet. It is the best spot to unwind and enjoy quiet moments with your loved ones. It is located within lush green forests & surrounded by diverse mountains. Jibhi is in Himachal Pradesh’s Tirthan valley. It is undisturbed by urbanization and surrounded by nature, which makes it one of the best unexplored destinations.
This place is worth seeing for its lush pine trees, peaceful freshwater lakes, and beautiful temples. This area will charm you, and you will not want to leave. Jibhi is best visited between October and May.
Highlights:
- The serene environment and natural beauty.
- Waterfalls and ancient temples.
Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to November
Activities:
- Trekking and hiking in the lush green landscapes.
- Exploring waterfalls and ancient temples.
- Bird watching and nature walks.
Nearby Attractions:
- Jalori Pass: Offers stunning views and trekking opportunities.
- Serolsar Lake: A beautiful high-altitude lake near Jalori Pass.
- Chehni Kothi: An ancient fort-like structure in Chehni village.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, about 52 km away. From Bhuntar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Jibhi.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar, around 140 km away. From Joginder Nagar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
- By Road: Jibhi is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Kullu, Manali, and other nearby cities.
7. Daranghati
Daranghati in Sarahan is among Himachal Pradesh’s most remote and unexplored areas. It is situated just above the town of Daran. It is well-known for the Daranghati Wildlife Sanctuary, yet nothing can take away from the breathtaking beauty it provides.
Daranghati can usually be covered as a day excursion from Sarahan because it is close to Sarahan (which itself provides astounding beauty and serenity) and lacks too many lodging alternatives. On the other hand, a one-day camping trip to Daranghati is highly recommended for seeing nature at its best.
The usual route to Daranghati passes through Mashnoo, and it is nearly an off-road adventure for vehicles. You must be an exceptional driver to visit here if you are going by your vehicle. Driving on this adventurous and tiny route requires caution.
If you are a driver or a rider who enjoys taking dangerous roads to reach an isolated location in Himachal for maximum relaxation, you should book a vacation to Daranghati right now. You will be satisfied on your trip.
Highlights:
- Remote and untouched landscapes.
- Rich biodiversity and wildlife.
Best Time to Visit: May to October
Activities:
- Trekking and camping in the wilderness.
- Wildlife spotting and bird watching.
- Exploring traditional villages and local culture.
Nearby Attractions:
- Sarahan: Known for the Bhimakali Temple and stunning views.
- Rampur Bushahr: Offers historical sites and a rich cultural heritage.
- Narkanda: A popular skiing destination in winter.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport, about 171 km away. From Shimla, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Daranghati.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Shimla, around 150 km away. From Shimla, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
- By Road: Daranghati is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from major cities in Himachal Pradesh.
8. Jagatsukh, Manali
Jagatsukh is the capital of Kullu. It is a lovely town around seven kilometers from Manali. Jagatsukh is a sacred spot for Hindus due to its natural beauty & ancient temples devoted to Lord Shiva. One day’s tour will be enough for the exploration of Jagatsukh. Those who want to stay here for a few days or weeks can book hotels, resorts, or homestays. They cater to every taste with a broad range of affordable lodgings and delectable foreign and local food.
Jagatsukh is located around seven kilometers from Manali at the northern end of the Kullu valley. Taxis are the most efficient mode of public transit here.
Highlights:
- Ancient temples and scenic beauty.
- Proximity to Manali.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November
Activities:
- Visiting ancient temples such as the Jagatsukh Temple.
- Exploring the scenic landscapes and nearby Manali.
- Trekking and nature walks.
Nearby Attractions:
- Hadimba Temple: An ancient cave temple dedicated to Hadimba Devi.
- Solang Valley: Known for adventure sports and scenic beauty.
- Rohtang Pass: Offers stunning views and snow activities.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, about 51 km away. From Bhuntar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Jagatsukh.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar, around 163 km away. From Joginder Nagar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
- By Road: Jagatsukh is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Manali and other nearby cities.
9. Kufri
Kufri is a lovely hill station near Shimla and the most famous among Himachal Pradesh’s snow enthusiasts. It was established in 1819 by the Britishers, captivated by the natural beauty and pleasant weather.
The hill station is located a short distance from Shimla. It is well-known for its skiing opportunities. It is home to the mountain state’s oldest skiing slopes. Its mild slopes are ideal for skiing, and it attracts skiers from all over the world. Himachal Pradesh’s travel and tourism department organizes an annual winter sports event in February.
Besides skiing, exciting adventure sports such as tobogganing (sliding downhill on a sledge) are available. The Great Himalayan Natural Park is located on the outskirts of town. It is a haven for environment enthusiasts and animal lovers. The lovely hill station may be visited all year; however, if you want to go skiing, you should go between December and February.
Highlights:
- A popular hill station with scenic views.
- Adventure sports and amusement parks.
Best Time to Visit: April to June and December to February
Activities:
- Skiing and snowboarding in winter.
- Horse riding and hiking in summer.
- Visiting amusement parks like Kufri Fun World.
Nearby Attractions:
- Shimla: The capital city of Himachal Pradesh, known for its colonial architecture and Mall Road.
- Chail: Famous for the Chail Palace and the highest cricket ground.
- Fagu: Offers stunning views and serene landscapes.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport, about 36 km away. From Shimla, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kufri.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Shimla, around 16 km away. From Shimla, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
- By Road: Kufri is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Shimla and other nearby cities.
4 Days Shimla Kufri Kasauli Trip
10. Khajjiar
It is also known as India’s “Mini-Switzerland”. Khajjiar is a modest, lovely hill station surrounded by deep green trees and farmland. Khajjiar is a must-see for nature enthusiasts since it provides a comprehensive visual delight. It is an excellent choice for a revitalizing break. The distance between Khajjiar from Dalhousie is about 23 kilometers.
It’s a great spot to cool off in the summer. Khajjiar is a prominent tourist attraction in Himachal Pradesh. Stroll through the dense pine trees and take in the panoramic splendor of the location.
Travel between July and December, when the weather is mild and pleasant, to get the most out of this place. That is the ideal time to go sightseeing.
Highlights:
- Mini Switzerland of India.
- Picturesque landscapes and adventure sports.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to December
Activities:
- Paragliding and horse riding.
- Exploring Khajjiar Lake and the surrounding meadows.
- Visiting the Khajji Nag Temple.
Nearby Attractions:
- Dalhousie: Known for its colonial architecture and scenic beauty.
- Chamba: Offers historical temples and a rich cultural heritage.
- Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary: A haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport in Kangra, about 122 km away. From Kangra, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Khajjiar.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Pathankot, around 118 km away. From Pathankot, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
- By Road: Khajjiar is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Dalhousie, Chamba, and other nearby cities.
5 Days Khajjiar Dharamshala Dalhousie Tour
Conclusion
Undoubtedly, Himachal Pradesh is full of hidden gems waiting to be explored. The state is known for its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and unique traditions. Himachal Pradesh offers guests a diverse range of sites that will amaze them.
Discovering Himachal Pradesh’s hidden treasures is a one-of-a-kind experience that allows tourists to interact with nature and learn about local culture. Himachal Pradesh has something for everyone, whether you wish to explore the lovely town of Kalpa, take in the calm beauty of Barot, or try your hand at adventure sports in Tirthan Valley.
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